Futuremark developing VRMark benchmark for VR gaming

Futuremark informs us they're developing a new VR benchmark called VRMark to measure how your system scores not only in terms of performance, but also the latency and accuracy of your VR gaming headset. A test version for industry partners is expected to arrive later this year but it's unknown when the consumer version will be ready.

Futuremark® is developing a VR benchmark that uses a combination of software and hardware to measure performance, latency, and accuracy. Designed primarily for manufacturers, analysts and press, the VRMark™ benchmark will test a system's ability to deliver high quality virtual reality experiences for a range of content types from photos and video to games and simulations. http://www.futuremark.com/benchmarks/vrmark

With development under way, Futuremark is inviting VR system manufacturers to join its Benchmark Development Program™. BDP members will have exclusive access to VRMark throughout its development, gaining a deep understanding of its workloads, right down to the source code. Using a development process that's been government-vetted for neutrality, members can provide input to Futuremark at every stage from specification to public release. Companies creating VR hardware and software, and others with an interest in VR system performance, are invited to apply for VRMark BDP membership today at http://www.futuremark.com/bdp.

"There are already more than a dozen different head-mounted displays for VR at various stages of completion. Analysts forecast that VR will reach 10.8 million users by the end of 2016. But delivering a great VR experience relies on overcoming significant performance challenges," said Jukka Mäkinen, Managing Director at Futuremark. "With VRMark, we're aiming to help everyone, from industry engineers and press reviewers to the end user at home, discover the best performing VR technology."

VRMark will test a VR system's ability to deliver a consistently high frame rate across a range of quality settings and content types. VR is highly sensitive to variations in frame rate. A smooth and stable frame rate is crucial to providing a comfortable VR experience.

In addition, VRMark will measure frame latency and the responsiveness and accuracy of the sensors present in the headset. Low latency is a key factor in achieving the feeling of presence in a VR world and avoiding motion sickness.

Futuremark and its parent company, UL, will additionally offer professional lab-based VR testing and verification with precision instruments to industry customers.

"UL believes that the blossoming VR industry will greatly benefit from a dedicated VR benchmark developed by a neutral 3rd party," said Sajeev Jesudas, President, Consumer Business Unit at UL. "VRMark is the first component of a comprehensive VR offering from UL that will also include the development of new standards and certification programs to protect the health, safety and well-being of VR users."